5 Songs I Love w/ Pure Speculator

Following the release of his latest single, "Fog Rap Melancholy", Flex caught up with Pure Speculator to find out what inspires his immersive electronic sound. Blending atmospheric production, experimental textures and introspective songwriting, the Los Angeles-based artist creates music that explores adaptation, reflection and the endless possibilities of the human mind. If you enjoy Pure Speculator's picks, be sure to check out "Fog Rap Melancholy" at the end of the article.

1. "Sunset Lover" by Petit Biscuit

I was introduced to this track early in my Ashtanga Vinyasa practice, and it quickly became something I relied on. There’s a calm, spacious quality to it that helped me stay mentally steady even in the most physically demanding classes — the kind where the heat and intensity make your mind want to wander or shut down. Beyond yoga, I noticed that whenever I listened to it while doing other activities, it seemed to color the experience in a uniquely positive way. It has this rare ability to keep me grounded while still making ordinary moments feel a little more alive.

2. "Lose Yourself" by Eminem

This song has always cut through for me. Eminem’s ability to rap about real struggle and determination in such a direct way has been motivating for a long time. When I’m in the gym, it reliably shifts my energy and helps me push past mental barriers. More than just adrenaline, it reminds me why I keep showing up for the things that matter — training, creating, and staying disciplined even when it’s difficult. It’s one of those tracks that reconnects me to my “why.”

3. "Elements of Life" by Tiësto

This track proved something to me that I had felt but never fully articulated: that instrumental, non-verbal music can sometimes move you more powerfully than lyrics. The production is so dynamic and layered that it affects me differently depending on what I’m listening on, yet it always delivers the same core feeling — focused, visceral, and quietly powerful. I’ve used it for years at the gym when I need to lock in. It has this driving, almost primal energy that boosts my mood and sharpens my mindset without needing a single word.

4. "Try" by P!nk

This song found me at the right time. It speaks directly to loss, resilience, and the decision to keep going even when you’re at your lowest. A few years ago, when I was going through one of the hardest periods of my life, this was one of the first things that helped me start picking myself back up. There’s a raw honesty in it that feels wise rather than preachy. I’m still grateful for artists like P!nk who can turn personal pain into something that helps other people feel less alone.

5. "Monody (feat. Laura Brehm)" by TheFatRat

This one just hits on multiple levels. I’m especially drawn to the violin and the way the flutes seem to dance around the melody — there’s a playfulness and emotional lift to it that feels genuinely invigorating. TheFatRat has this gift for creating music that feels both epic and intimate at the same time. I’ve loved almost everything he’s put out, but Monody in particular has stayed with me because of how alive and textured it feels every time I hear it.

Listen to "Fog Rap Melancholy"